“This is another clear attempt to sabotage and eventually destroy the ACA,” DeGette said. “Despite his repeated failures to repeal the law through Congress, President Trump continues his misguided and dangerous efforts to rip coverage from millions of Americans. The President should end this spiteful crusade and instead encourage bipartisan cooperation to improve the ACA, respecting the wishes of the majority of Americans.”

The edict paves the way for the Trump Administration to destabilize insurance markets, including by expanding the use of short-term and association health plans that would not have to comply with the ACA's core consumer protections like essential health benefits. The expansion of short-term plans, which are intended to fill gaps for consumers who experience a lapse in coverage, will be especially problematic for patients with pre-existing conditions.